Imphal: A three-hour meeting between the Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in the aftermath of the Tronglaobi incident and the Manipur government ended without a final agreement on April 16, with both sides deciding to continue discussions the following day.
The meeting, held at the official residence of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, was attended by members of the JAC, families of the victims, senior ministers and MLAs. The discussions centred on a set of demands earlier submitted by the committee.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, JAC member Moirangthem Gouro said the delegation had placed all its demands before the government. “The government responded well and listened patiently, but on certain points, no understanding could be reached,” he said, adding that talks would resume.
The JAC’s demands include a military crackdown on Kuki militant groups and redeployment of central security forces from valley areas to the hills. The committee has also sought compensation and protection of rights for the victims’ families, along with a judicial inquiry into the role of security personnel present during the incident, alleging lapses.
It has further called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the killing of two children and the injury of their mother. The committee also stated that the families would not claim the bodies of the deceased and would continue their blockade along Tiddim Road until the demands are fulfilled.
In a statement issued later, the Chief Minister expressed “profound grief” over the incident and acknowledged the trauma faced by the bereaved families. He conveyed his condolences and said the government stands firmly with them.
Reiterating the administration’s stance, he said the investigation is progressing with utmost seriousness and assured that justice would be delivered at the earliest. He added that strict action would be taken against those responsible in accordance with the law once they are identified.